The Dallas Stars made a change in net after the second period during Game 4 against the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday, trailing 3-0.
Despite facing 34 shots over 40 minutes and stopping 31 of them for a .912 save percentage, starting goaltender Jake Oettinger was replaced by backup Casey DeSmith to start the third period.
Initially, there was uncertainty whether the decision stemmed from an injury or was a strategic move by coach Pete DeBoer, especially seeing Oettinger on the bench.
Following the team`s 4-0 loss, Dallas coach Pete DeBoer clarified that the primary reason for the substitution was to give Oettinger rest before Game 5.
“Just for rest for Monday and to get Casey DeSmith some work,” DeBoer stated. “If we`re going to keep playing here, we`re going to need both guys, and Casey hasn`t played in a while.”
Tristan Blackwood